Abstract
Aim
The aim of this study is to assess the murine heart of normal embryos, neonates, and juveniles using high-frequency ultrasound.
Methods
Diastolic function was measured with E/A ratio (E wave velocity/A wave velocity) and isovolumetric relaxation time (IRT), systolic function with isovolumetric contraction time (ICT), percentage fractional shortening (FS %), percentage ejection fraction (EF %). Global cardiac performance was quantified using myocardial performance index (MPI).
Results
Isovolumetric relaxation time remained stable from E10.5 to 3 weeks. Systolic function (ICT) improved with gestation and remained stable from E18.5 onward. Myocardial performance index showed improvement in embryonic life (0.82–0.63) and then stabilized from 1 to 3 week (0.60–0.58). Percentage ejection fraction remained high during gestation (77%–69%) and then decreased from the neonate to juvenile (68%–51%).
Conclusion
The ultrasound biomicroscope allows for noninvasive in-depth assessment of cardiac function of embryos and pups. Detailed physiological and functional cardiac function readouts can be obtained, which is invaluable for comparison to mouse models of disease.
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Corrigan, N., Brazil, D.P. & McAuliffe, F.M. High-Frequency Ultrasound Assessment of the Murine Heart From Embryo Through to Juvenile. Reprod. Sci. 17, 147–157 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1177/1933719109348923
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/1933719109348923